
Computer Maintenance Course
Course Overview
This course equips students with practical and theoretical skills in computer assembly, troubleshooting, repair, and maintenance. Students will learn how to handle both hardware and software issues in personal computers, laptops, and peripheral devices. The course is designed to prepare learners for real-world technical support roles and further studies in ICT, electronics, or engineering.
Course Objectives
By the end of this course, students should be able to:
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Understand the internal and external components of a computer system.
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Assemble and disassemble desktop and laptop computers.
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Identify and troubleshoot common hardware and software problems.
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Perform routine preventive maintenance to ensure system performance and longevity.
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Install, configure, and update operating systems and device drivers.
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Handle virus and malware infections and install basic security tools.
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Understand basic electrical and electronic principles related to computing devices.
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Maintain printers, monitors, keyboards, and other peripheral devices.
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Understand and apply ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) safety measures.
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Develop a maintenance log and report writing skills.
Target Audience
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Secondary school graduates interested in ICT careers.
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Individuals pursuing ICT or electronics at diploma level.
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Office IT support staff seeking practical knowledge.
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Youths looking for self-employment in the hardware maintenance sector.
Training Methodologies
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Theory Lectures
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Hands-on Labs and Workshops
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Group Troubleshooting Assignments
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Video Demonstrations
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On-site Maintenance Practices
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Real Computer Tear-down and Rebuild Exercises
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Assessment Tests & Practical Exams
Main Course Topics
🛠️ 1. Introduction to Computer Hardware
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Classification of computers
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Components: CPU, motherboard, RAM, storage devices, PSU, etc.
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Peripheral devices: printers, scanners, monitors
🔌 2. Tools and Safety Procedures
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Common tools used in computer repair
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Proper handling of components
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Anti-static procedures (ESD)
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Workshop safety guidelines
🧩 3. Computer Assembly and Disassembly
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Identifying parts and their functions
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Step-by-step system assembly
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Laptop vs desktop disassembly
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BIOS/UEFI configuration
🔍 4. Troubleshooting and Diagnostics
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Power issues, POST errors, beeping codes
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Hardware testing (RAM, HDD, PSU)
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Software troubleshooting (OS errors, driver issues)
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Diagnostic tools (Hiren’s BootCD, MemTest, etc.)
💽 5. Operating System Installation and Configuration
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Installing Windows and Linux systems
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Disk partitioning, formatting
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Installing drivers
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OS optimization for performance
🔐 6. Virus and Malware Removal
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Types of malware
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Manual and software-based removal
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Installing and configuring antivirus software
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Safe browsing and prevention methods
🧰 7. Software and Driver Maintenance
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Identifying correct drivers
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Regular updates and patches
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Uninstalling unused or harmful software
🖨️ 8. Printer and Peripheral Maintenance
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Types of printers (inkjet, laser, dot matrix)
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Cartridge replacement and head cleaning
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Troubleshooting printer errors
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Maintaining monitors, keyboards, mouse, UPS
🧾 9. Preventive Maintenance
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Cleaning procedures for components
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Schedules for system checkups
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Creating maintenance logs
⚡ 10. Power Supply and Electrical Safety
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Understanding voltage and current requirements
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Using UPS and surge protectors
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Power diagnostics
Assessment & Certification
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Continuous Practical Assessments
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Written Exams
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Final Project: Full System Maintenance Report
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Certificate of Competence from VTA Registered Institution
Career Outcomes
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Computer Repair Technician
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IT Support Assistant
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Technical Sales Specialist
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Workshop Technician
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Self-Employed Hardware Expert
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Gateway to Diploma in ICT, Computer Engineering, or Electronics